Advertisement

WATCH: Westpac helicopter service releases dramatic rescue footage

The Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter has released dramatic footage of the daring rescue of a father and his two children after their boat capsized off North Stradbroke Island.

Mark Anning and his two boys, aged eight and six, were left clinging to their boat in South Passage Bay for two hours before help arrived.

The video, shot in February 2013, shows rescuer Gillian Howard making a plunge from the helicopter to save the trio.

One of the boys is unconscious and the other isn’t wearing a life jacket.

Eight-year-old Joe is the first to be winched aboard, followed by his brother Henry.

Westpac Lifesaver rescuer Gillian Howard winches Joe up from a capsized boat off North Stradbroke Island. Source: 7 News
Westpac Lifesaver rescuer Gillian Howard winches Joe up from a capsized boat off North Stradbroke Island. Source: 7 News

It was four years ago but Mr Anning said the rescue feels just like yesterday.

“We’re eternally grateful obviously to Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter Service for saving our family,” he said.

  • Father and son arrested after video shows them bashing teenager

  • WATCH: Cyclist remarkably walks away from horror crash

Mark Anning and his son Henry cling to the craft. Source: 7 News
Mark Anning and his son Henry cling to the craft. Source: 7 News

“All the boys are back out fishing. It didn’t take them too long. Mum took a little bit of a longer time to get over the ordeal.”

Ms Howard said seeing the family “so happy and well” and knowing that the service has “made a difference" was "really rewarding”.

Mr Anning (pictured) said he's eternally grateful to the service for saving his life. Source: 7 News
Mr Anning (pictured) said he's eternally grateful to the service for saving his life. Source: 7 News